Get in the holiday spirit with “Miracle on 34th Street” at the Ford Center. The touring musical, brought to Oxford by Capstone Theatricals of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, is a classic Christmas story sure to inspire for the upcoming holidays.
This is the first year the Ford Center is having “Miracle on 34th Street” performed, according to Kate Meacham, marketing director at the Ford Center.
Many of the folks working at the Ford Center love this classic tale and are excited to see the production themselves. Lyndsay Goschke, the front house director at the Ford Center, said she admires the message in the story.
“My favorite part of this Christmas story is the underlying concept of sharing love for those around you. I think it’s a very important thing to remember year round, but especially during the holiday season,” Goschke said.
The traditional story of “Miracle on 34th Street” follows a man, Kris Kringle, who steps in to play Santa at the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. He quickly becomes popular as Santa and continues to play the role of Santa every year. However, it causes problems for Macy’s because Kringle stands out on 34th Street and sends Macy’s customers to other stores where they can get better deals on products. This causes havoc, and eventually he has to go on trial for his sanity claiming that he is the real Santa Claus.
“Miracle on 34th Street” is a classic tale loved by many families, but the folks at the Ford Center said everyone can enjoy elements of the production.
“This show appeals to all ages. Anyone who wants to get into the spirit of the holidays will enjoy the songs and story of good cheer, a giving spirit and the ‘gift’ of kindness extended to all people,” Julia Aubrey, Ford Center director, said.
Despite the family-oriented vibe, it’s great for anyone in search of some holiday cheer.
For the Ford Center staff, holding events like this is rewarding.
“Getting to bring professional touring shows like this to Oxford and the university. Being able to provide the same shows that come to the Orpheum here in Oxford so that people can enjoy great shows like this without driving to Memphis.”
Being able to provide quality live productions is a goal of expanding the Ford Performing Arts Center. National tours provide more opportunities to experience art in our small and humble city of Oxford, with hopes of increasing business and encouraging more people to visit.
As of Tuesday, Meacham said it’s expected to be a sell-out show with only a couple hundred tickets left. It’s expected to be a big hit and hopefully kick off a wonderful holiday season.
Musicals have the ability make the world feel a bit lighter and happier for the holidays. They also have a superpower to make one feel inspired. Aubrey said that once a year they have a holiday-themed musical or play, such as “The Nutcracker,” and this year, “Miracle on 34th Street.”
“Everyone loves holiday music,” Aubrey said.
Anyone who needs brightening over the holiday season will enjoy the bright happiness this musical will bring to your Christmas celebration. Goschke shared some fun and festive information about treats for guests at the show.
“The volunteers working the event and I will be wearing festive hats and selling hot cocoa to bring up the holiday spirit, which is something we’re all very excited about and hope it is well received by our guests.”
“Music creates an emotional connection that enhances the words and provides a vehicle for touching hearts. It is a true pleasure to watch the audience smile and cheer for this heart-warming story,” Aubrey said.
“Miracle on 34th Street” will show Saturday at 3 p.m. Tickets are available at Fordcenter.org.
